The Bahamas
Profiled in Nassau · the Caribbean
Pastel colonial lanes and turquoise water meet a zero-income-tax address that keeps the winter yachts rolling in.
Cost of living
What a month costs
Nassau runs expensive because nearly everything is imported. A 10 percent VAT and steep electricity bills push everyday costs well above the wider Caribbean.
The scores
How it rates for a moving family
See and do
Top 10 in Nassau
- Queen's StaircaseSixty-six steps carved by hand from solid limestone, tucked into a cool green ravine.
- Fort FincastleSmall paddle-wheel-shaped fort above the staircase with wide views over the harbour.
- Fort CharlotteThe islands' largest fort, with dungeons, a moat and cannons over Nassau harbour.
- John Watling's DistilleryRum made at the historic Buena Vista Estate, with free tastings and colonial grounds.
- Ardastra GardensBotanical gardens and small zoo best known for its marching flamingos.
- Nassau Straw MarketBustling Bay Street market for woven baskets, hats and souvenirs.
- Pirates of Nassau MuseumInteractive walk through the town's rowdy golden-age-of-piracy past.
- National Art Gallery of the BahamasBahamian art in the restored colonial Villa Doyle near West Hill Street.
- Parliament SquarePink Georgian government buildings and a statue of Queen Victoria in the heart of downtown.
- Fort MontaguThe oldest and smallest of Nassau's forts, guarding the eastern harbour entrance.
Where to go
Weekend escapes
- The ExumasSwimming pigs, Thunderball Grotto and empty sandbars, a short hop by light plane or boat charter.
- Harbour IslandThree miles of pink sand and the pastel charm of Dunmore Town, off Eleuthera by quick flight.
- AndrosThe largest and wildest island, famous for blue holes and world-class bonefishing.
- Paradise IslandAtlantis waterpark and Cabbage Beach, just over the bridge from downtown Nassau.
- Rose IslandQuiet cays and a Sandy Toes beach day, a short boat ride east of the harbour.
Coffee
Best cafes
- Cafe MadeleineFrench patisserie and cafe loved for pastries, quiche and proper coffee.
- Athena CafeLong-running Greek spot on Bay Street, good for a coffee and a light bite downtown.
Restaurants
Where to eat
- Graycliff RestaurantHistoric fine dining at the Graycliff Hotel, with a landmark wine cellar and cigars.
- Cafe MatisseLongstanding Italian favourite tucked behind Parliament Square.
- The Poop DeckCasual Bahamian seafood on the water, a Nassau institution for grouper and conch.
- Lukka KairiWaterfront Bahamian cooking and live music on Woodes Rogers Walk.
- Twin BrothersArawak Cay Fish Fry stalwart for cracked conch, fried snapper and conch salad.
- Goldie's Conch HouseArawak Cay standby for fresh conch salad prepared right in front of you.
- Luciano's of ChicagoOld-school waterfront fine dining on East Bay Street.
Morning
Best breakfast
- Cafe SkansClassic Bay Street diner for Bahamian breakfast like stew fish and chicken souse.
- Bahamian Cookin' RestaurantDowntown home-cooking spot serving hearty local breakfasts.
- Cafe MadeleineCroissants, pastries and espresso for a lighter morning.
- Athena CafeGreek and Bahamian breakfast plates in the middle of Bay Street.
Residency
The Bahamas grants permanent residency to property buyers, with faster consideration for real estate above 750,000 US dollars and priority handling over 1.5 million. An annual homeowner residence card is also available for those with a smaller place.
Tax
There is no personal income tax, no capital gains tax and no inheritance or wealth tax. The government instead relies on a 10 percent VAT, customs duties and an annual property tax.
Thinking about moving here for real? See the verified The Bahamas residency and citizenship routes →
Curious what you would actually pay? See the The Bahamas tax profile: income, corporate, VAT and exit rules →
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